Unlock the Mysteries of the Brain — Join the Molecular Neurosciences Lab at the University of Amsterdam!

Position: Laboratory Research Technician / Animal Technician (f/m/x)
Location: Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences (SILS), University of Amsterdam
Contract Type: 0.8 FTE | Fixed-term (12 months) with potential for permanent role
Start Date: September 1, 2025
Salary: €2,899–€3,809/month (scale 7) + holiday bonus, 13th month & Dutch expat tax benefits

🧬 About the Role

Are you passionate about neuroscience, gene regulation, and neurodevelopmental research?
Do you thrive in high-tech laboratory environments and want to contribute to real breakthroughs in Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other neurological disorders?

The Molecular Neurosciences (MNS) Lab at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) is offering a cutting-edge opportunity to join our mission to decode brain development and disease. We are seeking an experienced and proactive Lab Technician to support animal model research, molecular workflows, and state-of-the-art neurobiology experiments.

🔬 What You’ll Do

You will be at the forefront of hands-on neuroscience research with responsibilities including:

• Perform biotechnical procedures such as in utero electroporation, iGonad, and genotyping
  
• Manage and care for MNS laboratory animals and colonies (rodents)
  
• Support PhD students and postdocs with animal-related experiments and training
  
• Coordinate with ethical boards on permit-related issues (CCD/DEC/IVD)
  
• Collaborate with the animal facility head and contribute to inspections (NVWA)
  
• Oversee colony management, administration, and procedural compliance
  
• Contribute to optimized SOPs and welfare standards in neuroscience animal work
  

✅ Who You Are

We’re looking for someone who is both technically skilled and team-oriented. You have:

• A Bachelor’s (HBO) or MSc in Zoological Sciences, Molecular Biology, or a related life sciences field (with Art. 9 or 12 certification)
  
• Hands-on experience with laboratory animal work, colony management, and molecular biology techniques
  
• A strong sense of organization, precision, and care in your work
  
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a diverse, international scientific environment
  
• Excellent communication skills in English (Dutch is a plus, not required)
  

🌟 Why Join Us?

At the University of Amsterdam’s Science Park, you will work in one of Europe’s most vibrant research hubs, surrounded by brilliant scientists, innovative companies, and top-tier facilities.

We offer:

• 💶 Competitive Salary: €2,899–€3,809/month + 8% holiday allowance + 8.3% end-of-year bonus
  
• 📚 Professional Development: Courses via Teaching & Learning Centre
  
• 🏖️ Time Off: 232 hours of paid leave annually (based on full-time)
  
• 🏡 Relocation Support: Help finding housing & Dutch integration assistance
  
• 💬 Language Learning: Dutch courses for expats
  
• 🧓 Retirement Plan: Pension with ABP (UvA covers 2/3 of contribution)
  
• 🏋️ Work-Life Balance: A supportive, flexible, and inclusive culture
  

🌍 International applicants are welcome! Dutch “30% ruling” tax advantage may apply. EU/EEA citizens only (including Switzerland & Norway).

🧠 About the Lab & Institute

Located at the Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences (SILS), the MNS Lab investigates brain development in health and disease, focusing on the cerebral cortex and midbrain. Our interdisciplinary team uses molecular, genetic, and animal-based techniques to unravel complex regulatory mechanisms that underlie neurodegenerative and developmental brain disorders.

We collaborate across sectors—biotech, pharma, agriculture, and high-tech—to translate research into real-world impact.

📅 Application Deadline:

June 15, 2025 (Rolling applications encouraged — apply early!)

📄 How to Apply

Please submit the following via our online portal:

1. A detailed CV including relevant coursework, grades, and project experience
   
2. A compelling Motivation Letter
   
3. Two professional references with contact details

Apply here

💡 Join Us in Shaping the Future of Neuroscience

If you’re fascinated by the molecular code of the brain, driven by innovation, and eager to contribute to next-gen therapies for neurological disease—this is your calling.

Apply today and be part of a collaborative, world-class team working at the intersection of biology, ethics, and discovery.